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penguin photos

L E A R N I N G A C T I V I T Y 1

HOW DO PENGUINS KEEP WARM IN COLD CLIMATES?

Penguins have several layers of feathers that help to insulate them from the cold. The top layer of feathers are overlapping and fit close together, almost like scales on a fish. These coarse outer feathers are also covered with a waxy, oil-like substance. This waxy substance is secreted out of a special gland located at the base of the penguin's tail. Penguins spend lots of time preening and spreading this waxy substance over their outer feathers with their beaks.

waxy feathers

outer layer of feathers

Underneath this tight layer of outer feathers is a thick layer of feathers called down. These fuzzy feathers trap air under the outer feathers. The layer of downy feathers combined with air acts to insulate the penguin from the cold. The fluffy, downy feathers combined with air keeps the body warmth in and helps to keep the cold air out. Both layers of feathers help the penguin to survive in the coldest temperatures on earth.

The plastic bag with the air is like the fluffy down under the outer feathers. These feathers keep the warmth in and the cold air from reaching the penguin's body. This allows the penguin to survive in some of the coldest temperatures on earth.


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